Top 11 Assistant Production Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for an assistant production manager in the job market because they demonstrate a commitment to professional development and provide evidence of specific skills and knowledge related to the position. Certifications can also help an assistant production manager stand out from other applicants by showing employers that they have taken the time to acquire additional qualifications and training needed for success in this role. Additionally, certifications can add credibility, boost confidence, and open up opportunities for career advancement.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Assistant Production Managers and explains how they can help to further an assistant production manager's career.

What are Assistant Production Manager Certifications?

Assistant Production Manager (APM) certification is a professional training and certification program designed to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills they need to manage production operations in many different types of industries. This certification is offered by a variety of organizations, including the American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS).

The APM certification program provides comprehensive instruction on the principles of production management, including planning, inventory control, scheduling, cost analysis and quality assurance. It also offers specialized classes on topics such as lean manufacturing practices, value stream mapping and kaizen. The program is designed to help individuals develop the skills they need to effectively lead production operations in their organizations.

The APM certification can help individuals advance their careers in production management by giving them a competitive edge against other applicants for management positions. It can also provide employers with a reliable way to identify qualified candidates for managerial roles. Additionally, having an APM certification can demonstrate an individual’s commitment to professional development and their dedication to staying up-to-date on best practices in production management.

Pro Tip: To become a certified assistant production manager, make sure to take advantage of any available online training or educational opportunities. Many organizations offer certificate programs and courses that can provide valuable insight into the production process and help you develop the skills necessary to become a successful assistant production manager. Additionally, consider joining professional associations or organizations related to your field in order to stay current on industry trends and best practices.

Related: What does an Assistant Production Manager do?

Top 11 Assistant Production Manager Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Assistant Production Managers today.

1. Certified Production and Inventory Management (CPIM)

Certified Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) is a professional certification program designed to help individuals gain knowledge and skills in the areas of production and inventory management. It is offered by the Association for Operations Management (APICS).

The CPIM program consists of five courses that cover topics such as supply chain management, demand planning, inventory management, master scheduling, and performance measurements. The courses are available online or in-person at an APICS-approved training center. Upon completion of all five courses, candidates must pass two exams to earn the CPIM designation.

It typically takes between six months and one year to complete the entire CPIM program. The amount of time it takes depends on how quickly you can complete each course and exam.

To get started with the CPIM program, you must first become a member of APICS. Membership fees vary depending on your membership type but range from $50-$400 per year. After joining APICS, you can purchase the study materials for each course online or in person at an APICS-approved training center. The cost of the study materials varies depending on which version you purchase but typically ranges from $250-$500 per course.

Once you have completed all five courses and passed both exams, you will be eligible to receive your CPIM designation from APICS. This designation can be displayed on your resume or business cards to demonstrate your expertise in production and inventory management.

2. Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM-F)

Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM-F) is a professional certification from the Association for Operations Management (APICS). It is designed to recognize individuals with expertise in production and inventory management. The CPIM-F certification requires a comprehensive understanding of supply chain management, production operations, and inventory control.

To obtain the CPIM-F certification, applicants must complete five modules of coursework: Basics of Supply Chain Management, Master Planning of Resources, Detailed Scheduling and Planning, Execution and Control of Operations, and Strategic Management of Resources. Each module includes an exam that must be passed in order to receive the CPIM-F designation.

The amount of time it takes to get the CPIM-F certification will vary depending on each individual's experience level and study habits. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from 6 months to 1 year to complete all five modules.

In order to get the CPIM-F certification, applicants must first register with APICS as a member or nonmember by visiting their website at www.apics.org. After registering with APICS, applicants can purchase their course materials online or through an APICS partner organization such as a local chapter or training center.

The cost for the CPIM-F certification varies depending on whether you are an APICS member or nonmember when you register for your courses. For members, the cost is $1,395 for all five modules plus exam fees; for nonmembers it is $1,595 plus exam fees. Exam fees are $85 per module for both members and nonmembers.

3. Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)

Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) is a certification program offered by the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM). It is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate mastery of the core concepts and principles of supply chain management. The CSCP program provides professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage global supply chain activities, from strategic design through tactical implementation.

The CSCP program consists of three components: a comprehensive exam, an online course, and an application/certification fee. The exam is offered in both English and Spanish, and consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as supply chain strategy, design, planning, sourcing, execution, technology, analytics, risk management and compliance. The online course includes twelve modules that cover the same topics as the exam.

To become certified as a CSCP professional you must pass the exam with a score of at least 70%. You must also complete all 12 modules in the online course within one year of registering for the certification. After passing both components you must submit an application form along with a nonrefundable fee of $495 USD to ASCM in order to receive your CSCP designation.

Overall it typically takes between 6-12 months to complete the requirements for becoming a Certified Supply Chain Professional.

4. Lean Six Sigma Green Belt

Lean Six Sigma Green Belt is a certification program that provides professionals with the knowledge and skills to lead Lean Six Sigma projects. It is designed for individuals who are looking to improve their organization’s operational performance by using the Lean Six Sigma methodology.

The Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification typically requires two to four weeks of intensive training, depending on the provider and the type of course chosen. The training covers topics such as process improvement, project management, data analysis, problem solving, and team building. Upon completion of the training, candidates must pass an exam in order to receive their certification.

In order to become certified as a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt, you must first complete the necessary training from an accredited provider. There are many providers available online or in-person that offer different types of courses and certifications. The cost of these courses can vary depending on the provider and type of course chosen. Generally speaking, most courses range from $1,500 - $3,000 USD.

Once you have completed your training and passed the exam, you will be awarded your Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification which is valid for three years before needing renewal. Renewal typically involves completing additional coursework or passing a refresher exam in order to maintain your certification status.

5. Project Management Professional (PMP)

Project Management Professional (PMP) is a globally recognized certification that demonstrates a professional’s experience, education, and competency in leading and directing projects. This certification is offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI), an international non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the profession of project management.

The PMP certification process involves passing an exam that tests your knowledge of project management concepts and best practices. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions across five domains: initiating, planning, executing, monitoring & controlling, and closing. To be eligible for the PMP exam, you must have at least three years of project management experience with 4500 hours leading and directing projects or seven years of project management experience with 3500 hours leading and directing projects. You must also have 35 contact hours of formal project management education.

It typically takes between four to six months to prepare for the PMP exam. During this time, you should review the PMBOK Guide (Project Management Body of Knowledge), complete practice exams, attend workshops or courses related to project management topics, and review any other materials that will help you pass the test.

The cost for taking the PMP exam varies depending on whether or not you are a member of PMI. If you are a member it costs $405; if you are not a member it costs $555. In addition to the cost of taking the exam there may also be additional fees associated with training courses or study materials if they are required for eligibility purposes.

Once you have passed the exam you will receive your official PMP certification from PMI which is valid for three years from date of issue. After three years you must renew your certification by completing 60 professional development units (PDUs) within those three years in order to maintain your credential status as active.

6. Certified Quality Engineer (CQE)

Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) is a professional certification offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). The CQE credential is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of quality engineering principles and practices. It is intended for professionals who are involved in the development, implementation, and maintenance of quality systems.

The CQE certification requires that applicants have a minimum of eight years of experience in quality engineering or related fields. This experience must include at least three years in a supervisory role. Applicants must also pass an exam administered by ASQ to demonstrate their knowledge and proficiency in the field.

The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions and covers topics such as quality system design, auditing, statistics, inspection, management principles, and problem solving. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete and costs $320 for ASQ members or $370 for non-members.

Once an applicant has passed the exam, they will be awarded the CQE credential and can use it to demonstrate their expertise in quality engineering. The certification is valid for three years after which time it must be renewed with additional continuing education credits or by retaking the exam.

7. Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence (CMQ/OE)

Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence (CMQ/OE) is a professional certification program offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It is designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated expertise in quality management and organizational excellence. The CMQ/OE certification is based on ASQ's Body of Knowledge, which covers topics such as quality management systems, performance improvement, customer satisfaction, leadership, and team development.

It typically takes about 6-12 months to prepare for the CMQ/OE exam. Preparation involves studying the ASQ Body of Knowledge and taking practice exams. Additionally, some organizations may require applicants to attend an accredited training course or complete a project related to quality management or organizational excellence.

To get certified as a CMQ/OE, you must pass a written exam administered by ASQ. The exam consists of multiple choice questions covering topics from the ASQ Body of Knowledge. You must also submit proof that you have completed at least three years of full-time work experience in quality management or organizational excellence in order to be eligible to take the exam.

The cost of obtaining the CMQ/OE certification varies depending on your location and whether you are an ASQ member or not. In general, it will cost around $400-$600 for non-members and $300-$500 for members. This fee includes registration fees and the cost of the exam itself.

8. American Society for Quality – Certified Quality Manager (ASQ CQM)

The American Society for Quality (ASQ) Certified Quality Manager (CQM) is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and competency in the field of quality management. The CQM certification is designed to demonstrate an individual's expertise in quality management principles, processes, and practices.

To become certified as a CQM, applicants must pass an exam administered by ASQ. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as quality management systems, process improvement, customer focus and satisfaction, leadership and team building, performance measurement and analysis, problem solving and decision making, project management, risk management, statistical process control, and more.

The exam takes approximately four hours to complete. Applicants must also have at least five years of experience in quality-related roles or activities.

The cost of the CQM certification is $449 for ASQ members and $599 for non-members. In addition to the exam fee, applicants must also pay an application fee of $50.

Once certified as a CQM, individuals are required to renew their certification every three years by completing continuing education credits or retaking the exam.

9. American Society for Quality – Certified Quality Auditor (ASQ CQA)

The American Society for Quality – Certified Quality Auditor (ASQ CQA) is a professional certification program that assesses the knowledge and skills of quality auditors. It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a mastery of the principles, practices, and tools of quality auditing. The ASQ CQA certification is internationally recognized and respected by employers in various industries.

To become certified as an ASQ CQA, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements, including having at least three years of full-time work experience in quality auditing or related fields. They must also pass an exam that covers topics such as quality management systems, auditing principles and practices, quality system standards, and audit techniques.

The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete. Candidates are allowed to use reference materials during the test. The cost of taking the exam varies depending on the country or region where it is taken; typically it ranges from $400 to $600 USD.

Once applicants have passed the exam, they will receive their ASQ CQA certification within two weeks after their successful completion date. The certification is valid for three years before renewal is required; however, recertification can be done online through ASQ’s website at any time during those three years.

In addition to passing the exam, applicants must also pay an annual fee of $50 USD to maintain their certification status with ASQ. This fee includes access to exclusive resources such as webinars, publications, discounts on training courses and conferences, and other benefits offered by the organization.

10. American Society for Quality – Certified Reliability Engineer (ASQ CRE)

The American Society for Quality (ASQ) Certified Reliability Engineer (CRE) is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and skills in reliability engineering. It is designed to recognize individuals who have the expertise to develop and apply methods for achieving reliable systems, products, and services.

In order to obtain the CRE certification, an individual must pass two exams: The Reliability Engineering Body of Knowledge (REBOK) exam and a specialty exam of their choice. The REBOK exam covers topics such as reliability principles, reliability analysis techniques, system design and integration, failure modes and effects analysis (FMEA), maintainability analysis, reliability testing and prediction models, system safety engineering, life cycle cost analysis, quality assurance/control plans, and system reliability management. The specialty exam allows applicants to choose from various areas of specialization including software reliability engineering, hardware reliability engineering, manufacturing processes or systems reliability engineering.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete the requirements for the CRE certification. This includes studying for both exams as well as completing any required coursework or practical experience needed to qualify for the certification.

The cost of obtaining the CRE certification varies depending on the chosen specialty area but generally ranges from $400-$1000 USD. This includes registration fees for both exams as well as any applicable course fees or other costs associated with obtaining the certification.

11. International Organization for Standardization – ISO 9001:2015 Lead Auditor

The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 9001:2015 Lead Auditor certification is a globally recognized standard that demonstrates an individual’s ability to audit and assess the quality management system of an organization. It is designed to ensure that organizations are meeting the requirements of ISO 9001:2015, which is a set of standards that outlines how to create and maintain a quality management system.

In order to become certified as an ISO 9001:2015 Lead Auditor, individuals must attend an approved training course and pass the exam. The duration of the course varies depending on the provider, but typically takes between 4-5 days. During this time, participants will learn about the principles and practices of auditing and gain practical experience in conducting audits.

The cost of the course varies depending on the provider, but typically ranges from $2,000 - $3,000 USD. This cost usually includes materials such as books or slideshows as well as registration fees for the exam.

Once you have successfully completed your training course and passed your exam, you will receive your ISO 9001:2015 Lead Auditor certification. This certification will be valid for three years before needing to be renewed.

Do You Really Need a Assistant Production Manager Certificate?

The short answer is no, you do not need an assistant production manager certificate to become an assistant production manager. However, having a certificate can certainly give you an advantage when applying for the position.

A certificate in assistant production management can demonstrate to employers that you have taken the time and effort to learn about the field and have developed a level of expertise that can be beneficial to their operation. It shows your commitment to the industry and your willingness to go the extra mile. Having this type of certification also gives potential employers confidence that you are knowledgeable in all aspects of production management, from budgeting and scheduling, to safety procedures and quality assurance.

Having a certificate may also make it easier for you to find employment opportunities in the field. Employers often use job postings as a way to filter out applicants who do not possess certain qualifications or certifications. A certificate in assistant production management may help you stand out from other applicants who lack such credentials. Furthermore, having this certification could open up doors for career advancement within your company, as many employers look favorably upon employees with additional training and education beyond what is typically required for the position.

In conclusion, having a certificate in assistant production management is not necessary for becoming an assistant production manager but it can give you an edge over other applicants and provide valuable knowledge that can benefit your employer’s operations.

Related: Assistant Production Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Assistant Production Manager Certifications

1. What qualifications do I need to become an Assistant Production Manager?

Answer: Generally, you will need a bachelor’s degree in a related field such as business, engineering or production management. Additionally, some employers may require certification in a professional organization such as the American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS).

2. How long does it take to get certified as an Assistant Production Manager?

Answer: It usually takes about 6 months of study and practice to pass the APICS certification exam for production and inventory management.

3. What are the benefits of getting certified?

Answer: Certification can help you stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs and can also lead to higher wages and promotions within your current job. It also gives you credibility in the workplace and increases your job security. Additionally, it can help you stay up-to-date on industry trends and technologies.

4. Does certification cost anything?

Answer: Yes, there is a fee associated with taking the APICS exam which is typically around $400-$500 USD depending on where you take the exam. Additionally, some employers may cover all or part of the exam fee for their employees.

5. Is there any ongoing training required after I am certified?

Answer: Yes, most certifications require that you participate in continuing education programs to maintain your certification status. This could include attending conferences or seminars, completing online courses, or participating in webinars related to production management topics.